Why Redskins GM Scot McCloughan waited for the 2017 draft class

With the impending 2017 combine and NFL draft, Washington Redskins general manager Scot McCloughan is under pressure to improve the team.

Some insist McCloughan did not do enough in 2015 and 2016 on the defensive line, but the GM likely new exactly what he was doing. Through researching multiple crops of college talent, he was waiting for 2017 to go after defensive players.

Safety Jalen Ramsey, a guy the Redskins could have surely used, was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars at fifth overall. No way was he going to be around at No. 22.

McCloughan and his scouting staff observe college players from the time they enter school. Last season, the GM most certainly had a good idea of the players that would come out in the 2017 draft class.

The Redskins pick at No. 17 this year, and there’s a ton of quality defensive players with the skills that Washington needs.

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Stanford defensive end Solomon Thomas could be available when the Redskins pick. They certainly need an edge rusher even if Junior Galette is healthy. Galette has the size, physicality and speed off the edge.

Auburn defensive lineman Montravius Adams could also be available at the 17th spot. McCloughan and his scouts were impressed by Adams at the Senior Bowl, where he had six tackles and a fumble recovery. Adams would bring his size, youth and speed to the defensive line.

Reuben Foster would be a boon for Washington. Rated the best linebacker in the nation by Pro Football Focus, he does exactly what the Redskins need: stops the run.

PFF’s Gordon McGuinnes wrote, “What Foster has done against the run so far this season has been impressive. Whether it has come by taking on blocks, or reading a play and making an unblocked tackle, he has made a huge impact for Alabama’s run defense.”

The Redskins have a need at nearly every position on defense. Any of these players, among others, would be an asset. No doubt McCloughan knew the 2017 class was stacked with defensive players when he selected offensive players in the first-round last year and the one prior.

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